Considerations for United States-Canada Border Traffic Disruption Management

This document provides a planning framework for border traffic disruptions management which requires the involvement and coordination of multiple agencies, organizations, and entities. It identifies key stakeholders in border communities and outlines critical issues to consider when developing or updating existing plans for managing the flow of traffic (people and goods) to and away from the border during a large-scale traffic disruption. It is not a prescriptive document. Rather, this document is intended to support the development of traffic management plans that are tailored to accommodate local requirements and considerations. The key considerations outlined in this document are organized across the following five sections:

• Preparedness;
• Communications and Information Management;
• Resource Management;
• Command and Management; and
• Ongoing Management and Maintenance.

Each section provides specific actions and questions for stakeholders to consider when developing and updating a traffic management plan. Stakeholders in border communities can utilize this document to help them develop arrangements and plans necessary to effectively manage traffic congestion associated with border delays.

Background

On February 4, 2011, President Obama and Prime Minister Harper announced the United States-Canada joint declaration, Beyond the Border: A Shared Vision for Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness. Beyond the Border articulates a shared approach to security in which both countries work together to address threats within, at, and away from our borders, while expediting lawful trade and travel.

Since the February 4, 2011 announcement, the Governments of the United States and Canada have worked to identify specific action items to advance the goals of Beyond the Border.